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January 27, 2021
Food Delivery in Nagano
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December 21, 2020
Say Goodbye to 2020 and ‘Hello’21!’: There’s Plenty of Great Deals in Nagano this Winter!
Winter is off to a great start here in Nagano! The snow has been falling and the resorts are already looking fantastic, with great powder and very quiet ski runs offering an enticing reason to vi...
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October 30, 2020
Looking for Cheap Shinkansen Tickets? Use Our Step-by-Step Guide to Access Savings of up to 50% Online!
Japan’s rail system is famous throughout the world for its efficiency, speed and comfort. A pleasure to use it does not however come cheap - particularly the ‘shinkansen’ (Bullet Train) syste...
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October 13, 2020
#GOTOTRAVEL: Winter is Coming – Plan & Book Your Hakuba Ski Trip for Winter 2020/21!
Located only one hour from central Nagano City, Hakuba is home of some of Japan’s best ski resorts. Collectively known as ‘Hakuba Valley’, a total of ten resorts offer an outstanding variety ...
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October 6, 2020
Visit Nagano: Everything You Need To Know
Lying in the centre of Honshu, Japan’s largest island, Nagano is the country’s fourth largest prefecture. Completely landlocked, Nagano is known for its mountains, natural landscapes, liveability...
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October 4, 2020
40 Things To Do In & Around Nagano
As the proud host of the 1998 Winter Olympics and home to the now world-famous Jigokudani Monkey Park, Nagano has a strong association with winter. It's for good reason! Home to around 80 ski...
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September 30, 2020
#TRAVELTOMORROW: Japan Set to Lower Travel Advisories for Certain Countries
It’s important to start this blog by saying that at this time, travel to Japan for tourism purposes remains extremely difficult and for nationals of many countries, impossible. In total, as of Se...
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September 16, 2020
#SNOWMONKEYRESORTSLOCAL: Nagano in Autumn – ‘Koyo’ Season Will Soon Be Here!
Over the past week, the temperature has certainly begun to drop here in Nagano. The days remain pleasant and warm but the heat and humidity of summer have gone, and nights are starting to feel cr...
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September 11, 2020
#SNOWMONKEYRESORTSLOCAL: ‘Go To Travel’ Extended to Tokyo as of October 1st 2020
As highlighted in our recent blog article – ‘#SNOWMONKEYRESORTS LOCAL: What is Japan’s ‘Go To Travel’ Campaign?’ – Japanese citizens and foreign residents of Japan are currently eligible for by s...
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August 31, 2020
#SNOWMONKEYRESORTSLOCAL: What is Japan’s ‘Go To Travel’ Campaign?
For our friends living in Japan, you have no doubt heard of the national 'Go To' campaign by now. Under that campaign, those living in Japan – including Japanese citizens and foreign residents – ...
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August 13, 2020
Using the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Visit Nagano & Central Japan – 50% Discounts Available from August 20th!
With the summer holidays in full swing, it’s a great time to visit Central Japan and escape the intense heat and humidity of the coastal cities. Though also hot during the day, Nagano and Central...
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August 11, 2020
Enjoy Nagano in Summer – Open Spaces, Cool Evenings & Lots to Do!
If you are living in Nagano or headed this way over the next few weeks, it’s a great time to enjoy some of the many attractions and activities on offer in and around the city. Nagano isn’t immune...
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August 4, 2020
#TRAVELTOMORROW: Fruit-picking in Nagano – an Ideal Outdoor Activity in Summer & Autumn
As we head into the middle of summer, there’s one thing on our mind here in Nagano… fruit! Lots and lots of tasty fruit! Blessed with an ideal climate for growing many varieties of fruit, ...
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July 30, 2020
#TRAVELTOMORROW: Relax & Renew in the Hot Springs of Central Japan
When planning your travel in Central Japan, we recommend staying in the region’s many outstanding hot spring towns. Known as ‘onsen’ in Japan, natural hot springs are found throughout the prefect...
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July 6, 2020
#TRAVELTOMORROW: Clean Green & Healthy – Get Outdoors & Get Back to Nature!
When thinking about your future travel to Japan, it’s a great time to consider heading outdoors and exploring some of Japan’s beautiful natural landscapes. Whether you are first-time visitor or s...
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July 3, 2020
#TRAVELTOMORROW: Clean Green & Healthy – Discover Central Japan
When researching and planning a visit to Japan, understanding the regions and which areas are nearby others, can be a little confusing – particularly for first-time visitors. While some n...
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July 2, 2020
9 Things to do in Nagano this Winter
Most famous as a winter destination, Nagano has so much to offer during this season that many international visitors find themselves returning again and again and again. With that in mind, here our ...
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July 1, 2020
10 Things to Do in Nagano in Spring & Summer
As host of the 1998 Winter Olympics and home to around 80 ski resorts, Nagano is known as a winter destination. While the region certainly has a lot to offer during the colder months, there’s just as...
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#TRAVELTOMORROW: Clean Green & Healthy – Accessing Medical Assistance in Japan during COVID-19
In anticipation of the borders opening in future and travel resuming under the cloud of COVID-19, one of the most important questions travellers can ask is, should I need it, what access will I h...
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June 29, 2020
#TRAVELTOMORROW: Clean Green & Healthy – Choosing your Accommodation in Japan
When considering your future travel to Japan, one of the biggest decisions is where to stay and what to expect once you arrive. Japan is one of the cleanest countries and hygiene-focused ...
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June 26, 2020
#TRAVELTOMORROW: Clean Green & Healthy – When Can I Travel to Japan & is it Safe?
At the time of writing, entry to Japan is still banned for many foreign passport-holders. There is however conversation about how and when entry bans will be lifted with a strong focus on opening...
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June 24, 2020
#TRAVELTOMORROW: Clean Green & Healthy Japan
As announced in our recent blog, our website has been updated to include a section dedicated to COVID-19 including pages intended to help you make an informed decision about travelling to Japan. ...
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June 22, 2020
Snow Monkey Resorts Update: Introducing our Dedicated COVID-19 Information Pages
In response to the ongoing impact of coronavirus on global tourism, we have revised our website to include information and updates regarding COVID-19. From our homepage you can access our...
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June 12, 2020
How to Get to Nagano City
As the largest city in Nagano Prefecture and the broader region, Nagano City is your gateway to Central Japan. Easily accessible using the Hokuriku Shinkansen Line - which runs from Tokyo to Kana...
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June 5, 2020
How to Get to Matsushiro
Located approximately 12km to the south of central Nagano, the small and unassuming destination of Matsushiro is well-known as one of Central Japan’s best-preserved samurai towns. Once th...
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May 14, 2020
Limited Express Shinano
Running from Nagano Station to Nagoya Station, the Limited Express Wide View Shinano connects two of Central Japan’s major cities and travel hubs. Taking its name for the large windows which affor...
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Nagano Station
Conveniently located in the centre of Nagano City, Nagano Station is the busiest transport hub in the region and your gateway to Central Japan. Sitting near the midpoint of the Hokuriku Shinkansen...
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May 7, 2020
Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival
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April 22, 2020
Snow Monkey Resorts Winter Tours & Charters
From all of us at Snow Monkey Resorts, we would like to give a big shout out to all of our guests who joined us in Nagano during winter 2019/20! Thanks to you we were able to have a successful winte...
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April 13, 2020
Nagano Cherry Blossom Update: April 13th 2020
From everyone at Snow Monkey Resorts, we’d like to wish everyone a Happy Easter and with that, provide a quick cherry blossom update. Yesterday was lovely, sunny and warm spring day here in Nagano. ...
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March 26, 2020
Travelling in Japan: Coronavirus Update as of Mar-26 2020
The impact of the coronavirus on daily life around the globe is now dramatic. We wish everyone well and please follow the advisories in your home countries and regions, to ensure your health and saf...
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March 24, 2020
Zenkoji Omotesando Illumination
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March 13, 2020
Travelling in Japan: Coronavirus Update as of Mar-13 2020
As the coronavirus continues disrupt daily life around the world, many are wondering about its impact in Japan and their plans to travel to Nagano. As included in our previous blog, the following we...
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March 9, 2020
The Taste of Nagano: 18 Foods You Must Try
The old saying goes that a way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. From my own experience, this applies to women too! So it stands to reason that the food we enjoy when we are on holiday can ...
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March 5, 2020
Nagano Tomyo Lantern Festival
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February 20, 2020
15 Things To Do In & Around Togakushi
Nestled in the mountains to the north-west of Nagano City, Togakushi is famous for its natural beauty and spiritual significance. It is a place of dramatic seasonal change experiencing heavy snow...
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February 18, 2020
15 Things to Do in Matsushiro
Located 12km to the south of central Nagano City, Matsushiro is a small town known for its samurai heritage and former stronghold of the Sanada clan. Originally from Ueda, the Sanada clan relocat...
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February 3, 2020
2020 Nagano Cherry Blossom Forecast
Known as 'sakura', cherry blossoms are synonymous with Japan and are seen to embody the fragile beauty of life itself. As the weather warms in spring, the flowers bloom and Japan will emerge from th...
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December 15, 2019
Bright Light in the Winter Night: Combine Your Visit to the Snow Monkeys with a Winter Festival in Nagano
As host of the 1998 Winter Olympics and home to around 80 ski resorts along with the famous hot spring-bathing monkeys of Jigokudani, Nagano is synonymous with winter. Offering abundant snow in clos...
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November 2, 2019
Nagano Setsubun Festival
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October 16, 2019
Snow Monkey Resorts Update for Oct-16 2019: Tours are Operating as Normal
Given the recent impact of Typhoon Hagibis on Nagano Prefecture, we are receiving many enquiries about the availability of our tours, access to the Snow Monkey Park, and ability to travel to and fro...
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October 11, 2019
Hotel Kokusai 21
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September 25, 2019
1-Day Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake In Nagano Tour
1-Day Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake In Nagano Tour ...
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September 24, 2019
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys & Snow Fun In Shiga Kogen
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September 22, 2019
[SPRING ONLY] 1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys & Cherry Blossoms In Nagano
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September 21, 2019
[SPECIAL EVENT] Takato Castle Park Cherry Blossom Tour
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[START FROM NAGANO CITY] Private Snow Monkey Tour
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September 20, 2019
[START FROM HAKUBA] Private Snow Monkey Tour
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September 19, 2019
[START FROM NOZAWA/MADARAO] Private Snow Monkey Tour
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September 18, 2019
[START FROM SHIGA KOGEN] Private Snow Monkey Tour
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September 17, 2019
[START FROM MYOKO] Private Snow Monkey Tour
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September 15, 2019
[START FROM KARUIZAWA] Private Snow Monkey Tour
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September 13, 2019
2-Day Snow Monkeys, Luxury Ryokan, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake Tour
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September 9, 2019
TRADITIONAL CRAFT EXPERIENCES IN NAGANO CITY: MORNING & AFTERNOON ACTIVITIES NEAR ZENKO-JI TEMPLE!
One of the main attractions for many visitors to Japan, are the numerous beautiful crafts that play such an important role in traditional and contemporary culture. Although one of the world’s most...
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Snow Monkey Resorts Tour Desk
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August 15, 2019
Zenkoji Temple
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August 13, 2019
Togakushi
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August 10, 2019
Discover Matsushiro – Nagano City’s Samurai Town
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July 30, 2019
RECOMMENDED FIREWORKS FESTIVALS IN NAGANO
You can't say that you have experienced the Japanese summer until you see one of Japan's astonishing fireworks festivals! Fireworks in Japan are an essential summer tradition with a long history and a...
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July 28, 2019
WINTER-ONLY SHUTTLE SERVICE: YOU CAN NOW JOIN OUR AWARD-WINNING 1-DAY SNOW MONKEY TOUR FROM HAKUBA!
Recognised as one of the Top 10 Experiences in Japan with a 2019 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award, guests based in Hakuba this winter will be able to join our most popular tour through use of o...
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July 27, 2019
1-DAY SNOW MONKEYS, ZENKO-JI TEMPLE & SAKE TOUR: ALTERNATE PICKUP POINTS AVAILABLE IN NAGANO CITY!
As Nagano's No.1 tour and charter operator we are always looking for ways the experience we provide our guests on our tours. Awarded a 2019 TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Award as one of the Top 1...
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Cherry Blossoms In Nagano
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July 26, 2019
Nagano Cultural Experiences
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July 23, 2019
Onsen In & Around Nagano
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July 14, 2019
COMBINING SNOW MONKEY RESORTS SKI PACKAGES & PRIVATE CHARTERS: RECOMMENDED MULTI-RESORT SKI TOURS IN NAGANO!
As recently featured, Shiga Kogen is not just Nagano’s but also Japan’s largest and highest ski resort. With 79 ski runs serviced by 51 chairlifts and gondolas, Shiga offers the largest expanse of...
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July 7, 2019
Get More Out of Your Winter Adventure in Japan: Private Charters to, from & Between any Nagano Ski Resort!
As host of the 1998 Winter Olympics, Nagano is home to around 80 independent ski resortsand blessed with some of the best powder in the world. Whether you are visiting Nagano for the first time o...
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June 30, 2019
ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRY & ENJOY THE BEST OF JAPAN THIS AUTUMN! BEST DAY TOURS FROM TOKYO DURING THE RUGBY WORLD CUP 2019!
The world will turn its focus to Japan this autumn, as it hosts the Rugby World Cup from September 20th to November 2nd 2019. With 13 host venues spread throughout Japan – from Hokkaido in the nor...
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June 22, 2019
TRIPADVISOR TRAVELERS’ CHOICE AWARDS: OUR 1-DAY SNOW MONKEYS, ZENKO-JI TEMPLE & SAKE TOUR NAMED ONE OF JAPAN’S TOP 10 EXPERIENCES FOR 2019!
Snow Monkey Resorts is happy to announce our 1-Day Snow Monkeys, Zenko-ji Temple & Sake Tour has been recognized as one of Japan’s best tour experiences winning a 2019 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Cho...
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June 17, 2019
RECOMMENDED TRAIL IN NAGANO PART 2: HISTORIC TRAILS
In the next installment of our “Recommended Trails in Nagano” series, let’s take a look at two of the most captivating historical trails in the prefecture—the Nakasendo Post Town Trail and the Togakus...
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June 4, 2019
SNOW MONKEY RESORTS WINTER TOURS & CHARTERS! START PLANNING YOUR NAGANO SKI & SNOWBOARD ADVENTURE FOR WINTER 2019/20!
Winter is never far away – or at least never out of mind – here in Nagano. With the past winter having come late but then refusing to call it quits, and ultimately blessing us with a massive amoun...
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June 3, 2019
NAGANO’S BEST SPRING/SUMMER TOURS! COMBINE TOURS & CREATE YOUR OWN MULTIDAY PACKAGE!
As Nagano’s No.1 tour operator, Snow Monkey Resorts continues to welcome new and old friends into the region, as more and more people discover the seasonal beauty of Central Japan. There’s never a...
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June 2, 2019
ANNOUNCING OUR NEWEST TOUR: 1-DAY SNOW MONKEYS & ZENKO-JI WINTER ILLUMINATION!
*The illumination event scheduled for December 2019 has been moved to February 22nd to March 1st 2020. As a result, our tour will operate on the same days in February and March 2020. It ...
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June 1, 2019
The Famous Food of Nagano
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May 15, 2019
Enjoy Sake in Nagano
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May 10, 2019
Autumn Leaves In Nagano
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May 8, 2019
Discover the Spirit of the 1998 Olympics
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May 2, 2019
Olympic Stadium / Minami Nagano Sports Park
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M-Mave Olympic Memorial Arena & Olympic Museum
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Big Hat Arena
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White Ring Arena
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Aqua Wing Arena
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April 3, 2019
HOTEL KOKUSAI 21 – SHUTTLE BUS SERVICE FOR NAGANO STATION
Hotel Kokusai 21 is conveniently located for access to a number of attractions in central Nagano City, including Zenko-ji temple, the Gondo district, and Uruoikan (the city center’s only hot spring)....
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March 12, 2019
Takato Castle Park Cherry Blossom Festival
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February 2, 2019
BRIGHT LIGHT IN THE DARK NIGHT: NAGANO’S TOMYO LANTERN FESTIVAL
As host of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games, Nagano remains proud of its Olympic legacy and since 2004 has commemorated its most celebrated winter with its annual 'Tomyo' Lantern Festival. Runni...
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January 24, 2019
2019 NAGANO CHERRY BLOSSOM FORECAST
Spring in Japan brings beautiful weather and a welcome end to the cold of winter. As the weather warms and winter clothing is shed, the spirits lift and the world seems fresh and new again. A popu...
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November 30, 2018
WINTER TOUR PICKUP SERVICE: AVAILABLE FROM TOMORROW (Dec 1st 2018 to Mar 31st 2019)!
*Please note that in 2019, this service has been extended to now be available all year round for guests joining us in Nagano City. Up-to-date information can be found at: 1-DAY SNOW MONKEYS, ZENKO-JI ...
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November 29, 2018
ZENKO-JI OMOTESANDO ILLUMINATION: A GREAT WAY TO EXPLORE NAGANO AT NIGHT!
*Please note, the illumination of the temple - scheduled for December 2019 - has been moved to February 22nd to March 1st 2020. As a result, our tour will operate on the same days in February and Marc...
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November 6, 2018
How To: Getting to Nagano from Tokyo by Shinkansen
When heading to Nagano from Tokyo, the shinkansen - often referred to as the 'Bullet Train' - is by far, the fastest and easiest way to get here! Taking between 80 and 110 minutes (depending on whic...
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November 2, 2018
INTRODUCING OUR NEW 2-DAY SNOW MONKEY TOUR: NAGANO TO TAKAYAMA via MATSUMOTO
Nagano and the surrounding regions that make-up central Japan are a place of natural beauty, typified by high mountain peaks, and deep culture found in its historic towns, temples and castles. Often o...
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September 9, 2018
Fine-Dining ‘Tempura’ Course at Shunka
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Fine-Dining ‘Kaiseki’ Course at Shunka
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‘Shodo’ (Calligraphy) Experience In Nagano City
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‘Origami’ Experience In Nagano City
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‘Mizuhiki’ (Paper Cord) Making Experience In Nagano City
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Traditional Tea Ceremony In Nagano City
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‘Washi’ (Japanese Paper) Making Experience In Nagano City
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September 8, 2018
Matsushiro Castle Park
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September 5, 2018
VISITING ZENKO-JI: ONE OF JAPAN’S MOST ACTIVE & WELCOMING TEMPLES
Nagano’s Zenko-ji Temple is one of the oldest and most important Buddhist complexes in Japan with a near-1400 year history. A place of true religious significance, legend, and myth, Zenko-ji is the he...
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The Sanada Family Residence
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September 2, 2018
Matsushiro Bunbu Literary & Military Arts School
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August 31, 2018
Samurai & Traditional Experiences in Matsushiro
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August 27, 2018
Former Higuchi Residence
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August 24, 2018
Zozan Shrine
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August 22, 2018
NAGANO CITY NIGHTLIFE: AFTER DARK AROUND ZENKO-JI TEMPLE
Most visitors to Nagano will take the time to head up the hill from the station and visit the city’s most famous attraction, Zenko-ji Temple. With a near 1400-year history, the temple embodies a seduc...
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August 21, 2018
Yamadera Jyozan Residence
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August 18, 2018
Sanada Treasures Museum
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August 15, 2018
Zozan Imperial Wartime Tunnels
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August 13, 2018
Chokoku-ji Temple
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August 12, 2018
NAGANO’S ‘ENNICHI’ SUMMER FESTIVAL: EAT, DRINK, DANCE!
Summer in Japan is synonymous with heat, humidity, and more enticingly, festivals! While ‘matsuri’ (festivals) take place throughout the year and for countless (often obscure) reasons summer is the se...
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Obakushu Zozan Emyozenji Temple
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August 9, 2018
Takeyama Zuigo Inari Shrine
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August 5, 2018
ZENKO-JI OMOTESANDO ILLUMINATION: NAGANO’S FAMOUS TEMPLE COMES TO LIGHT!
Founded in 642, Nagano’s Zenko-ji Temple is one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Japan. As the nucleus of the city we know today, Nagano grew out from the temple, with Zenko-ji a...
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July 23, 2018
Togakushi Shrine Okusha
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July 19, 2018
MONZEN TERRACE ENYA
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MONZEN TERRACE ENYA: A WELCOME ADDITION TO NAGANO CITY’S RESTAURANT SCENE
With summer now in full force and temperatures predictably high, the opening of Nagano City’s newest restaurant is particularly well-timed. Monzen Terrace Enya is located within the historical and pic...
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June 17, 2018
IT’S ALMOST SUMMER & TIME TO CELEBRATE: NAGANO CITY’S BINZURU DANCE FESTIVAL
As we head toward summer in Japan, it means one thing – festivals, lots of them! Japanese love a matsuri (festival) and whether you are a visitor to Japan, or living here yourself, there’s no better t...
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May 27, 2018
‘Zazen’(Seated) Meditation
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‘Goma’ Prayer (Fire Ceremony)
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‘Shakyo’(Brush) Meditation
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VISITING ZENKO-JI TEMPLE: EXPERIENCE 3 ESSENTIAL JAPANESE BUDDHIST PRACTICES
Nagano City is home to one of Japan’s oldest and most important Buddhist temples, Zenko-ji. Located within an easy 20 minute walk from JR Nagano Station, the temple is one of the most popular attract...
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May 15, 2018
TOUR PICKUP POINTS IN NAGANO CITY: WINTER 2018/19 (Dec 1st 2018 to Mar 31st 2019)
*Please note that in 2019, this service has been extended to now be available all year round for guests joining us in Nagano City. Up-to-date information can be found at: 1-DAY SNOW MONKEYS, ZENKO-JI ...
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May 9, 2018
GETTING TO THE SNOW MONKEY PARK BY BUS: REVISED TIMETABLES FOR APRIL TO NOVEMBER Getting to the Snow Monkey Park by Bus: Revised Timetables for April to November
A visit to the Jigokudani Monkey Park is one of Nagano's most enjoyable experiences. For most people, the journey will begin at Nagano Station from where they have the option of heading to the park ...
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May 3, 2018
SNOW MONKEYS & CHERRY BLOSSOM TOUR: THANK YOU TO ALL OUR GUESTS & LOOKING FORWARD TO CHERRY BLOSSOM TOURS IN 2019!
As spring continues to warm this year’s cherry blossom season has come to an end. During April, Snow Monkey Resorts welcomed many guests to the region on our 1-Day Snow Monkeys and Cherry Blossom Tou...
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NAGANO’S YUKEMURI EXPRESS SIGHTSEEING TRAIN: TURNING YOUR JOURNEY TO THE SNOW MONKEY PARK INTO AN EVENT!
There are several transport options when visiting the Snow Monkey Park from JR Nagano Station including train (and local bus) or express bus. All of these services are operated by Nagano Dentetsu (Na...
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April 29, 2018
GETTING TO THE SNOW MONKEY PARK: UPDATED TRAIN TIMETABLE AS OF APRIL 2018
One of the most popular ways to access the Snow Monkey Park is using the Nagano Dentetsu (Nagaden) train line from JR Nagano Station. The train affords you an easy and comfortable journey to Yudanaka...
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April 26, 2018
Bus or Train? How to Get to the Snow Monkey Park from JR Nagano Station
A visit to the Jigokudani Monkey Park is one of Nagano's most enjoyable experiences. For most people, the journey will begin at Nagano Station from where they have the option of heading to the park ...
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April 19, 2018
2018/4/19 NAGANO CHERRY BLOSSOM UPDATE
The blossoms are now coming into full bloom across Nagano including at Yamanouchi and Kanbayashi Onsen - home to our favorite furry residents, the snow monkeys! The small and quiet streets of Kanbaya...
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HOTEL KOKUSAI 21: PICK-UP/DROP-OFF SERVICE
(2019/4 updated) Scheduled shuttle service for Nagano station is also available now. If you're in need of accommodation in Nagano City and want a hotel that conveniently located, Hotel Ko...
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April 5, 2018
2018/4/5 NAGANO CHERRY BLOSSOM UPDATE
In Japan the season of spring is heavily celebrated. The most famous habit the Japanese display is sitting under colorful cherry blossoms and just watching the blossoms bloom while drinking a beer, et...
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February 26, 2018
NAGANO CITY HOTEL RECOMMENDATIONS
There is plenty to discover in and around Nagano City. There's the Zenko-ji temple complex, Matsushiro, Togakushi, Obuse, and the Snow Monkey Park. It is difficult to fit all the sights to see into 1 ...
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February 20, 2018
1998 Nagano Olympics Pt.2: Ski Resorts 1998
With the recent completion of the XXIII Olympic Winter Games and upcoming XII Paralympic Winter Games in Pyongyang, South Korea, there is understandable interest in celebrating the 20th anniversary ...
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January 21, 2018
How To: Introducing the Hokuriku Arch Pass
Japan Rail offers a range of passes to international visitors that offer fantastic convenience and savings. While the full Japan Rail (JR) Pass is well-known and well-used by foreigner travelers in ...
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January 19, 2018
LIMITED PLAN: SNOW MONKEY TRANSPORTATION PASS & ACCOMMODATION
Senjukaku is celebrating their 90th year and has decided to provide an extra service to those coming to stay at the ryokan. In order to get to Senjukaku, you'll have to travel from JR Nagano Station t...
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December 1, 2017
NAGANO FAVORITES: HOTEL KOKUSAI 21
Nagano City has a great many hotels, being the capital of Nagano Prefecture and the capital of the 1998 Olympics. One favourite hotel we'd like to introduce is Hotel Kokusai 21, one of the most high-c...
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November 26, 2017
TOUR PICK-UP SERVICE POINTS IN NAGANO CITY (Dec 1 2017 to March 31 2018)
*Please note that in 2019, this service has been extended to now be available all year round for guests joining us in Nagano City. Up-to-date information can be found at: 1-DAY SNOW MONKEYS, ZENKO-JI ...
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October 31, 2017
10/31 THE KANBAYASHI ROUTE TO THE SNOW MONKEY PARK IS REOPENED
The Kanbayashi route to the Snow Monkey Park is open from today! This is good news for bus and train travelers, as this route is the closest and easiest one to the Park. After the typhoon on th...
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September 25, 2017
NAGANO CITY: INTRODUCING THE GONDO DISTRICT
Most people stay close the Nagano Station when visiting Nagano City. We'd like to propose an alternative course. When staying overnight, stay closer to Zenko-ji Temple, Nagano's main attraction, and c...
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September 17, 2017
SHUNKA
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September 15, 2017
KOKUSAI 21: TEPPANYAKI SAKURA
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KOKUSAI 21: CHINESE RESTAURANT KARIN
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KOKUSAI 21: ITALIAN RESTAURANT DONODONO
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NAGANO CITY: RESTAURANTS AROUND ZENKO-JI TEMPLE
One of the biggest attractions in Nagano City is the near-1400 year old temple complex of Zenko-ji. As one of the oldest, largest, and most significant Buddhist temples in Japan, visiting Zenko-ji is ...
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NAGANO CITY: RESTAURANTS IN GONDO AREA
One of the most dynamic areas in Nagano City is the entertainment district of Gondo. Most people visiting Nagano City often don't venture any further than the station area, but that's a shame. Gondo h...
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September 14, 2017
KINOKO & VEGETABLE
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DAIMARU SOBA
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HIYORI CAFE
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GONDO’S MENYA BUSON
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BISTRO & BAR NAGI
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BEERHALL TOPI
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TENTEN RAMEN
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SATSUMAIMO (SWEET POTATO) SWEETS STORE
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KUICHI IMAMURA SOBA
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HAKATA TONKOTSU RAMEN
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September 12, 2017
TRADITIONAL CRAFT EXPERIENCES, RESTAURANTS & INTERESTING SHOPS ON THE STREET LEADING TO ZENKO-JI TEMPLE
When visiting Nagano City, many people choose to stay around the central precinct surrounding the station. It has the greatest concentration of accommodation, restaurants and bars and of course, i...
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September 9, 2017
BEST VIEWS OVER NAGANO CITY
Nagano City lies in a valley, surrounded by mountains from all sides. If you know the right vantage point, you can see all over the plains of Zenko-ji and surrounding areas like Obuse and even up to t...
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September 5, 2017
Uruoikan: the Only Natural Onsen in Nagano City
Uruoikan is a hot spring facility in Nagano City. Located within walking distance of Nagano Station and positioned next to the Susobana River, Uruoikan is the only 100% natural onsen in the city off...
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September 1, 2017
Matsushiro Castle Park: Former Stronghold of Nagano’s Samurai Town
Like most modern cities, Nagano grew rapidly through the 20th century, absorbing what were once separate and distinct towns, villages and hamlets. One such areas of the Nagano suburbs is the hist...
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August 29, 2017
1998 Nagano Olympics Pt.1: Facilities in Nagano City
As may if not most visitors heading to the region know, Nagano was the host venue of the 1998 Winter Olympic Games. With its tall mountains, long snow season, and proximity to Tokyo, Nagano was thou...
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August 22, 2017
NAGANO CITY: GET BLESSED AT ZENKO-JI’S BUDDHIST MORNING RITUAL
The morning service, also called "o-asaji" at Zenko-ji Temple, is one of the most interesting activities that you could partake in while you are in Nagano City. What's "o-asaji"?  ...
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June 30, 2017
Uruoikan
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June 1, 2017
Nagano City Area
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May 25, 2017
Nagano Binzuru Dance Festival
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May 17, 2017
FACTS ABOUT THE EBISU-KO FIREWORKS FESTIVAL
If you love fireworks than the Ebisu-ko Fireworks festival in Nagano City is the perfect event for you to go to. It is one of autumn's biggest and most prestigious festivals with over 15,000 firew...
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April 8, 2017
CHERRY BLOSSOM SEASON/SITES IN NORTHERN NAGANO
When you ask people to name three things that define Japan they usually name Mount Fuji, geisha, and cherry blossoms. Nagano Prefecture is quite far from Fuji and we would advise you to go to Kyoto to...
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March 18, 2017
Kids’ Ninja Village
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March 16, 2017
Attractions Around Nagano City
Having found your way to this website most likely means that you want to see the snow monkeys. Many people do this as a day trip from Tokyo. They leave Tokyo early in the morning and arrive back to To...
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January 13, 2017
How To: Shinkansen Reservations to Nagano
Now that we’ve covered the basics of getting to Nagano on the shinkansen including the different JR Pass options available to you, let’s tackle how to actually buy tickets and use the train. This pa...
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December 20, 2016
NEW YEARS AT ZENKOJI TEMPLE & SNOW MONKEY AREA
New Year is only a few months away and we have had a few questions about the Snow Monkey Park during New Years. Fret not: the park opens during their usual opening hours. Easy answers out of the way, ...
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November 25, 2016
BIKURA
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September 10, 2016
ABOUT THE CITY OF NAGANO
The city of Nagano has a long history and was formally established as a city on April 1, 1897. It was the first established city within Nagano Prefecture and the 43rd city in Japan. Nagano City is loc...
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NINJAS AT TOGAKUSHI
In a previous article we talked about Togakushi's Okusha Shrine. Today we would like to introduce to another popular attraction in Togaukshi - the fascinating Ninja Museum! But firstly, who were the...
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August 31, 2016
AUTUMN IN JAPAN
Watching the reds, oranges and yellows of the autumn leaves is the next best thing to watching the cherry blossoms bloom to the Japanese. When the summer heat of August cools down and ch...
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August 9, 2016
JAPANESE FIREWORKS FESTIVALS
Summer is the time of year when it's hot and humid, and it's the best time of the year to be in Japan. When hearing hot and humid most people are likely to think it's better to stay indoors where ther...
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August 1, 2016
Fruit-picking Nearby JR Iiyama Station
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July 16, 2016
ENTERTAINMENT IN NAGANO CITY
Tired of walking and sightseeing? Want to blow off some steam? Here are some spots within Nagano city where you can have fun! Seeing as this topic is quite different from the usual touristic sightseei...
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July 10, 2016
Hotel Sunroute Nagano
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June 24, 2016
SUMMER FESTIVALS IN NAGANO CITY
Going to a festival is always a fun occasion but going to a Japanese festival is a whole different experience. Japanese festivals, or “matsuri”, were originally held to pray to various deities for goo...
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June 23, 2016
BE LIKE A MONK AT ZENKO-JI TEMPLE
There are many Buddhist temples in Japan and tourists, both Japanese and foreign, enjoy taking photos of these holy places. But one remains on the fringes of Buddhism by just taking photos. There are ...
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June 4, 2016
TOGAKUSHI SHRINE OKUSHA
Shinto is the religion indigenous to Japan and its rituals play a big part in everyday life. Unlike the majority of religions the Shinto religion has no official scripture. Japanese people who practic...
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May 26, 2016
SOBA NOODLE – NAGANO’S SIGNATURE FOOD
A trip to Nagano could never be complete without trying some of the local specialities. In Nagano, “soba noodles” is the most popular signature dish. Most Japanese tourists have it on top of their “Wh...
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May 16, 2016
KOKUSAI 21: COFFEE LOUNGE BAYBERRY
KOKUSAI 21: COFFEE LOUNGE BAYBERRY...
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May 6, 2016
Things to Do Around Jigokudani Monkey Park
Welcome to Snow Monkey Resorts in Nagano, Japan ! Here at Snow Monkey Resorts we would like to on top of your great experience with the snow monkeys make your stay in the area, or even your day-trip, ...
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April 13, 2016
TOP 5 SOUVENIRS AT ZENKO-JI TEMPLE
When you visit Zenkoji-temple, the third largest wooden temple in Japan and one of the most historical temples since the Buddhism arrival in the 7th century, you will pass through the main pilgrim...
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March 21, 2016
Hiking At Togakushi
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March 3, 2016
Lake Kagami-Ike
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February 18, 2016
Jizokan Matsuya Ryokan
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January 14, 2016
[NOV 23 ONLY] 1-Day Tour: Ebisu-ko Fireworks Festival & Snow Monkeys
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January 13, 2016
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys & Zenko-ji Winter Illumination
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January 10, 2016
1-Day Tour From Hakuba & Nagano: Nozawa Fire Festival & Snow Monkeys
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1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys & Zenko-ji Tomyo Lantern Festival
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January 9, 2016
Ryokan Chuokan Shimizuya
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January 5, 2016
1-Day Tour: Snow Monkeys & Snowmobiling In Shiga Kogen
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January 3, 2016
2-Day Snow Monkey Tour: Nagano To Takayama via Matsumoto
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December 10, 2015
WHAT IS SNOW MONKEY RESORTS ?
“Snow Monkey Resorts” refers to numerous resorts nestled within northern Nagano prefecture in Japan, home of the world famous Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen). Our landscape, which...
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December 9, 2015
Experience Togakushi Ninja House
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December 6, 2015
Shop at Nakamise Street
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December 2, 2015
KOMATSUYA
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December 1, 2015
GOTOKUTEI
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BACCARA
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TIKU
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SEISHINDO
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SUZUKIEN CHATEN
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YAMACHO
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MENYA BUSON
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RISTORANTE LA CAMPANELLA
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GAGATON
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CHO BALI BALI
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ARTERIA BAKERY
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IKA-SENBEI
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HEIGORO
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SHINSHU NAGAYA SAKABA
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THE FUJIYA GOHONJIN
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November 25, 2015
Yoshinoya Sake Brewery
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November 20, 2015
OGAWA NO SHO
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October 16, 2015
Tokyu Rei Hotel
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July 27, 2015
Tokyu Department Store
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July 26, 2015
Kaleidoscope Workshop
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Bracelet Making
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July 25, 2015
Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum
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July 23, 2015
C-ONE Department Store
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Midori Department Store
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JAMES NAGANO BEER MARKET
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ORIENTAL KITCHEN SANDALWOOD
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July 16, 2015
Karaoke: JoySound
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July 10, 2015
Tonbo-Dama Bead Crafting
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Yuzen & Kusaki-Zome Dyeing Workshop
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June 29, 2015
Make Oyaki
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Meet Maids At Maid Cafe & Bar REI
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Nagano Grand Cinemas – Movie Theater
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Play With Cats At Cat Cafe NARU
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June 28, 2015
TADAIMA
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June 23, 2015
Rosary Blessing & Morning Service At Zenko-ji Temple
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March 28, 2015
Hotel Abest Naganoeki-mae
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February 20, 2015
Hotel Nagano Avenue
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February 19, 2015
Hotel Mielparque Nagano
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February 18, 2015
Chisun Grand Hotel Nagano
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January 19, 2015
Hotel Metropolitan Nagano
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January 10, 2015
BURGER SPRINGS
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MOMIJI CHAYA
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December 15, 2010
Togakushi Dondo-Yaki Festival
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October 25, 2010
The Beeso – Togakushi Drinking Festival
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September 20, 2010
Matsushiro Spring Cherry Blossom Festival
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September 15, 2010
Nagano Marathon
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August 26, 2010
The Nagano Flower Festival
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June 21, 2010
Nagano Gion Festival
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June 4, 2010
Wakaho Fure-Ai Odori Festival
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May 25, 2010
Toyono Yoishoko Festival
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May 21, 2010
Binzuru-Ichi Market
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May 20, 2010
Iizuna Fire Festival
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May 15, 2010
Zenko-ji Temple Summer Ennichi
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Rokaku-Lake Fireworks and Lantern Float Festival
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April 5, 2010
Nagano Daidogei Street Performance Festival
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March 22, 2010
Kawanakajima Battlefield Fireworks Festival
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March 20, 2010
Matsushiro Autumn Sanada Clan Jumangoku Festival
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